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When I started studying aikido, I did what any self-respecting (ex)New York intellectual would do: cleared room on a shelf and went off to the bookstore. The only book I brought home that day was "The Aikido Student Handbook." As a rank beginner, it was the only book in the store I understood, and it met my needs perfectly, explaining basics like what a dojo is, how and when to bow, the role of sempai, etc. There were two things I really appreciated: first, the humor and lack of pomposity (p. 37's illustration of common gi/obi mistakes still gives me the giggles); secondly, the glossary of Japanese words and phrases commonly heard in the dojo. The information in this slim volume went a long way to making me feel more secure in the strange new world of the dojo. Very highly recommended for newbies.

What a delight this modest little training manual is! It provides a brief overview of what aikido is, how it came to be, and why you might want to practice it. Chapters on "What is a Dojo?" "Looking for a Dojo," "Common Questions," "Joining a Dojo," and "Etiquette" address many of the issues and confusions beginners face, in a light, breezy, and unaffected manner. Lively and humorous cartoon illustrations supplement points made in the text. The brief glossary contains the most commonly encountered Japanese terms, with clear guides to pronunciation for Americans. The list of "Suggested Reading" contains a good selection of material of interest to new students of aikido. Nor is the information packed into this little book only useful for beginners--yudansha can also benefit from an occasional perusal. I hope that O'Connor, or his publishers, can arrange bulk discounts for dojos. This would be an ideal book to include in an introductory packet given to new dojo members. Not everyone will agree with every point on philosophy or effectiveness of technique described in this book, but as an overview of the mainstream, and a good place for newcomers to start, it is excellent.

This book is a must for the new Aikido student. It provides key insight into etiquette, Japanese language use, and the fundamental philosophies that govern everyday life in the Aikido Dojo. I seriously recommend this book for people thinking about joining, or have just begun their practice in Aikido.